Pastor Silas Malafaia criticized Bolsa Família as vote-buying and the end of the 6x1 work shift during a service at Assembleia de Deus Vitória em Cristo in Rio's north zone on Sunday (3). The event featured Senator Flávio Bolsonaro and political allies, signaling their reapproximation. Malafaia also accused the STF of political persecution.
On the morning of Sunday, May 3, 2026, pastor Silas Malafaia criticized the Bolsa Família program during a service at Assembleia de Deus Vitória em Cristo (ADVEC) in Penha, north zone of Rio de Janeiro. "How is this country going to prosper where government beneficiaries outnumber producers? You receive Bolsa Família, kit gás, kit whatever? Brother, we are deceived", he said, questioning the rise to 53 million beneficiaries.
Malafaia opposed ending the 6x1 shift, stating workers seeking this "will want one day of work and six off". The service gathered Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ), presidential pre-candidate, ex-governor Cláudio Castro (PL-RJ), federal deputy Sóstenes Cavalcante (PL-RJ), state deputy Douglas Ruas (PL), and ex-mayor Marcelo Crivella (Republicanos). Before the event, Flávio and allies met privately with the pastor, and all were called to the altar for prayer.
Malafaia intensified criticism of the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF), claiming "political persecution" after becoming a defendant for injúria in the First Panel days earlier. He called the fake news inquiry "illegal and immoral", opened to "silence" critics, and addressed Minister Alexandre de Moraes: if he does not repent, "justice will come upon him in Jesus' name". "I didn't cite anyone's name", he defended, invoking freedom of expression.
Flávio Bolsonaro stated their relationship was always "respectful, of friendship" and he left "even stronger". Sóstenes Cavalcante said: "It's clear the pastor will walk and help at the right time". The meeting signals support for Flávio's pre-candidacy amid PL's strategy in Rio.
